Carrie Preston on Elsbeth: Bringing Quirk, Charm, & Justice to the Streets of New York

Actress, director, and producer Carrie Preston opens up about the evolution of her beloved character, her love for southern hospitality, and why a Miami-based mystery might be the perfect next case.

For over a decade, Carrie Preston’s portrayal of the eccentric yet brilliant Elsbeth Tascioni has captivated audiences in The Good Wife and The Good Fight. Now, with Elsbeth, she steps fully into the spotlight, bringing her signature wit and unconventional detective skills to the streets of New York. Here, Preston shares what it’s like to embody Elsbeth every day, how the character has evolved, and what unexpected twists lie ahead. She also reflects on her Miami connections, from her directorial debut at the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival to imagining Elsbeth solving a hot mystery in South Florida.

Miami Living: After playing Elsbeth somewhat sporadically over the last 14 years across The Good Wife and The Good Fight, how does it feel to bring this character into the spotlight in Elsbeth?

Carrie Preston: It feels luxurious and indulgent to get to play Elsbeth every day versus just a few episodes a season. The writers have fleshed her out into a fully realized person with a past, an exciting present, and even some uncertainties in the future. I love the jump from a legal show to a police procedural because it really breathes fresh air into the character. I am delighted in Elsbeth becoming a New Yorker and learning how to solve murders in this city she loves so much. And I’ve enjoyed building her relationships with Captain Wagner (the great Wendell Pierce), Officer Blanke (the wonderful Carra Patterson), and her son, Teddy (the adorable Ben Levi Ross).

Miami Living: How has portraying Elsbeth in her own show differed from being part of the ensemble cast in The Good Wife and The Good Fight? Was there a shift in how you approached the character for the new series?

Carrie Preston: The tone of the show is different than its predecessors, and I obviously have way more to do on Elsbeth than I ever did on those shows. But my approach to the character, as with all characters, remains the same. I always start with the writing (and I was/am blessed with wonderful writing on all of these shows) and I dig as deep as I can to find all the nuances and hidden gems in there. And then I come to set ready to play with the other actors, the director and the crew to make it as wonderful as we can.

Miami Living: What aspects of Elsbeth’s character have evolved since the start of the series? In what ways do you see her continuing to develop?

Carrie Preston: Her rich emotional life is now on full display, so you’re able to see an array of different colors on her face…. And in her wardrobe! Her past has come back to haunt her a bit this season, and we’re going to see that continue to play out. So, she’s got to figure out her next moves in order to keep her job and the respect of her peers.

Miami Living: What’s your favorite scene or storyline in the new series? What about that particular moment resonated with you?

Carrie Preston: The fun thing about Elsbeth the show is that the writers give us something new and unexpected every episode. I always love scenes with Wendell and Carra at our “home base,” the precinct.  And this season’s guest stars are epic. I’ve had really wonderful moments with some of my very favorite actors in the business! And many of my friends have come on to play, as well. In the 9th episode this season, Elsbeth is at a meditation retreat and her meditation partner is played by my dear friend Marcia DeBonis, whom I directed in a feature film years ago. And that episode was also directed by another old friend, Nancy Hower, who I met back when I was in school at Juilliard. I love collaborating with people with whom I share such a rich history. 

Miami Living: Given how unique Elsbeth’s character is, do you think there are other aspects of her personality or background that have yet to be fully explored? What would you love to dive deeper into?

Carrie Preston: She’s very driven and has been extremely successful and as a result, wealthy. She’s often having to explain away or defend her privilege, and that’s interesting to grapple with. I would love to continue to learn more about her family and her upbringing. 

Miami Living: Without giving too much away, are there any dramatic shifts in her story that you’re looking forward to?

Carrie Preston: Well, as you know, my husband Michael Emerson has been a guest star this season. Elsbeth knows that his character, Judge Milton Crawford, committed a murder. But so far, we’ve not seen her solve the case and it really does seem like he might get away with it. He’s got so many connections and so much power, that he is seemingly above the law. Elsbeth’s white whale. But she’s a force to be reckoned with, as we know!

Miami Living: Miami has such a distinct character in pop culture—whether in films, TV shows, or even the news. How do you think Elsbeth’s quirky personality would clash with or complement the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of a city like Miami?

Carrie Preston: Elsbeth would be all over the art deco architecture and style, and the gorgeous colors associated with Miami are her favorite colors, too. She’s a bit of a flamingo, fashion-wise! She would dive right into the life of the city and find some way to solve crimes all while enjoying South Beach, going to Heat games with Teddy, and dancing to salsa music.

Miami Living: Given your extensive experience working in diverse locations and environments, how do you feel about exploring her character in a Miami-based storyline?

Carrie Preston: That would be amazing. My husband and I just visited Key West, and it whetted our appetite to see more of southern Florida. Maybe murder on a boat, with the gorgeous sunset!

Miami Living: What was it like having your directorial debut at the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival almost 20 years ago? What were the highlights of celebrating this achievement in the city?

Carrie Preston: I directed a tiny indie feature film called “29th and Gay”, and we really wanted to have our world premiere at the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.  The previous year I had starred in a film called “Straight-Jacket” that had been very well received at that festival, but I hadn’t been able to attend. So, I was thrilled when we were welcomed with open arms by Carol Coombes and all the people involved in the festival at that time.  We explored the city and saw lots of wonderful films and loved sharing our tiny film with such a warm audience. 

Miami Living: Can you share something that most people would be surprised to find out about you? Any hidden talents or hobbies?

Carrie Preston: It’s no secret that I’m Southern, and my background comes to life when I spend time with my family in our place in the Hudson Valley, north of NYC. I make my special buttermilk biscuits, I garden with a focus on the vegetables that make the best Southern meals (tomato sandwiches, especially), and I host big family gatherings with all the Southern hospitality I was raised to offer.

Miami Living: What do you feel is the most challenging and rewarding aspect of being a producer and director?

Carrie Preston: As an actor you’re responsible for fleshing out one character, but when you’re a director or producer, your focus is on every aspect of the storytelling. I like how invigorating that is. All of the creative muscles get exercised. But that’s also a lot of balls to keep in the air and the challenge is to not drop any. But I do love a challenge and feel fortunate whenever I get the opportunity to do my best to rise to it. 

You can watch season 2 of Elsbeth weekly on CBS, or stream it on various platforms. Follow Carrie Preston on Instagram @carriepreston.

By By Morgan Harms. Photos by Emily Assiran